Category: Blog

The cloud has become an essential tool for companies worldwide. Large, multinational corporations leverage cloud services to standardize their operations and synchronize activity across the globe. However, small businesses can benefit greatly from adopting the same technology. Cloud networking for small business is readily available now that the technology has matured to the point where even the leanest startup can afford it. What benefits are there for small businesses specifically?

What Are the Benefits of Cloud Networking for Small Businesses?

Unparalleled Security

Cybersecurity needs to be one of your top priorities. Small businesses are actually more likely to be victims of a cyberattack because criminals are well aware that small businesses rarely have the knowledge necessary to prevent such intrusions. Going to the cloud can actually boost your cybersecurity. There’s an outdated belief that the more you connect to the internet, the more your risk increases. However, when you consolidate your systems into a single cloud networking solution, you minimize risk.

Cloud networking for small business can take advantage of additional security features. For instance, two-factor authentication (2FA) will prevent someone from easily accessing your system if they’ve stolen an employee’s login and password. The second factor will require an additional confirmation, preventing many attacks. By keeping your data in the cloud, you also keep your data safe from physical threats, like fires or earthquakes. In addition, the cloud empowers security software that can protect your entire company.

24/7 Monitoring Software Calls for the Cloud

When your files and systems are connected to the cloud, you can then use cloud-based tools to monitor your company’s cloud network. These security programs constantly monitor your network for potentially suspicious activity. For example, a graphic designer who normally interacts with design files could be flagged when they suddenly access lots of Excel charts. This could be a sign that someone else is using the designer’s computer to steal data. Security software halts this activity until it is verified.  

Similarly, these programs can identify unusual logins from strange locations or prevent an unauthorized installation. If malicious code is detected at any time, it’ll be quarantined and confined so that it doesn’t spread to other computers on your network. If you have a managed IT services provider, they’ll also be given regular reports from security software. Your on-site IT technicians will also get these reports so they can investigate further and keep your company safe.

Smooth Collaboration

One of the best things about the cloud is its ability to facilitate collaboration. Small businesses usually don’t have clearly defined processes with a lot of structure. As a result, data tends to be scattered across multiple computers or accounts. This makes collaboration tedious since files need to be sent manually from person to person, or access needs to be given. When your files are on a centralized cloud network, everyone can access what they need, when they need it.  

Best of all, you never have to worry about working on the “right” file. There’s one file in the cloud that everyone can work on at the same time. You won’t pass a version back and forth ever again. As long as you have internet access, you can collaborate with others in real time. And if you’ll be on a long flight, you can always download files to work offline and your changes will be synchronized next time you connect.

Cloud-Based Programs Facilitate Group Work

You can expand your collaborative capacity with additional cloud-based programs. Most business software has migrated to the cloud. If you’re still using older versions, you’re missing out on a lot of useful features. For instance, Microsoft’s Office Suite is now Microsoft 365, which allows you to connect your files in the cloud to every program Microsoft offers. Users don’t even have to install the programs on their computers! They can open a web browser and use the program right away.

Adobe’s Creative Cloud lets multiple people work together in Photoshop or Illustrator. Cloud-based communication tools like VoIP can give a whole team access to a single company phone number. With the cloud, collaborative possibilities are endless.

No Up-front Costs

Cloud networking for small businesses is a great way to avoid big IT expenses. Cloud services typically have monthly fees according to what you use. For example, if you get a cloud-based VoIP phone system, you’ll pay for each phone line that you need. When it comes to cloud storage, you can pay by the gigabyte. If you need cloud processing, you’ll pay according to how much CPU power your jobs require.

This approach means you won’t have to shell out for extremely expensive solutions. Instead of building your own high-power server to process complex computing tasks, you can use a portion of a massive data center’s power for a fraction of the price. For small businesses, this is a huge benefit. You get access to the best tools without paying the full price. There are no installation costs, either.  

Access to the Latest Features

Cloud-based systems are constantly being updated with new features. You can even opt into experimental features in some cases. Instead of waiting to purchase the latest version of a program at a large cost, you get upgrades delivered to you as part of your subscription. Since this process is automatic, it’s one less job for a busy small business owner to worry about.

You also get a boost to your cybersecurity because program vulnerabilities get patched regularly when you rely on the cloud. When new vulnerabilities are discovered, companies begin fixing the problem and they push the update out to you instantly.

Better Scalability

Small businesses want to grow. Nevertheless, IT can quickly become a bottleneck for growth. The systems that you built yourself to start your company may not scale up smoothly. However, the cloud allows you to scale infinitely without significant upgrades to your infrastructure. When you run out of storage on your hard drive, you need to buy another one and perform a time-consuming data migration. If you hit your cloud storage limit, you buy more space with a quick click.  

Seamless scalability means no downtime and fast solutions. Without the cloud, you’d need to plan out a large purchase, wait for components to arrive, install them, and deploy them. The time you save with the cloud means it pays for itself. You can focus on activities that actually grow your business, instead of worrying about whether scaling up is possible or not with your current equipment.

Greater Flexibility

Businesses of all sizes struggled to adapt to work-at-home orders and sudden changes in workflows. However, small businesses were hit particularly hard as many of them had not yet implemented cloud networking for small business. Those that were already working in the cloud, though, found it easy to transition. Many of them stayed alive. The cloud gives you the flexibility to work in different ways, which means that you can adapt to sudden changes.

Even as workflows return to normal, you may still want to have the freedom to work remotely. Doing so allows you to hire better talent from afar while also making it easier for your staff to take a productive sick day or stay active while traveling. Not only will remote work be easier, but you’ll also have the ability to get remote IT support. Managed service providers can help you out with your technical problems without coming into your office.

How to Move to the Cloud

If your company isn’t already using the cloud, what’s the best way to migrate to a cloud-based environment? First, you need to analyze your processes. You’ll likely have to make some changes to your workflow. Fortunately, the cloud helps you automate and eliminate many steps, so you should find that your processes become more agile. From there, determine what you hope to accomplish with your transition to the cloud. Clear goals will help you prioritize your spending.

The exact set of cloud-based tools you’ll need will depend on your business activities. Oftentimes companies choose the wrong programs, find themselves disappointed with the results, and go back to the traditional way of doing business. A better approach is to bring in outside assistance. Specifically, consider managed services. A managed services provider will help you set up each of your cloud-based tools. They can then handle any maintenance or management tasks that you need.

Managed Services Handle Your Cloud

When you use cloud-based services, a managed service provider can take care of many tasks for you. If you need to expand your storage, for instance, you can just ask your managed services provider to do it for you. Do you want to add another VoIP phone line? Just call managed services. When you keep things in-house, someone from your team has to do these tasks. When you move to the cloud, managed service experts can do it for you.

That is why more small businesses are switching to cloud-based systems with managed services. You save time and money while getting the best technology possible. Contact Cyber Command to schedule a technology strategy session and get your company into the cloud.

One of the best upgrades that a small business can get is VoIP phone service. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, and it’s fast becoming the default for successful companies. In fact, VoIP has taken over traditional phone services and is only poised to continue to grow. VoIP services for small business customers can help your business grow while also improving customer service, sales, and a lot more. So, how do you get started with VoIP?

Do I Need a Provider for VoIP?

VoIP Providers Deliver an Essential Service

Just as you need the help of a telephone company to get traditional phone service, if you want VoIP services for small business, you will need a VoIP provider. Unless you’re willing to build your own data center, establish your own connections to telephone networks, and start your own VoIP company, a provider is a must. Fortunately, you have an abundance of options. You can also trust managed IT service providers to select the right VoIP provider for you.

VoIP providers will assign you a VoIP phone number for a monthly fee. You can even request multiple numbers, transfer an existing phone number, or get specialty numbers like a toll-free phone number through your provider. Most VoIP providers have tiered service levels so that you can choose which features you need for your company. But what does a VoIP provider do exactly? It helps to understand how VoIP works in the first place.

How Does VoIP Work?

VoIP is one of many internet protocols. Your devices use a variety of protocols to transfer data over the internet. For example, FTP, or file transfer protocol, allows you to send and receive files directly between two devices. The Voice over Internet Protocol is designed to take voice data and transfer it over the internet efficiently. When you consider what a successful phone call requires, it becomes clear that VoIP is quite complex.

If you’ve ever dealt with a bit of lag while on the phone, you know how frustrating it can be. Likewise, static or poor call quality can completely ruin a phone call. Phone calls need to be instantaneous and crystal clear, which is why VoIP establishes a real-time connection between two devices. It uses smart compression algorithms to take voice data and make it easy to transfer over the internet.

How Do VoIP Phones and Regular Phones Communicate?

The most impressive part of VoIP technology is that it allows you to call any phone, even one that doesn’t use VoIP. This is where your provider plays a crucial role. VoIP providers establish connections to telephone lines and cellular towers so that your VoIP call can reach any phone, anywhere. This works both ways, so you don’t have to worry about customers being able to reach your business when you switch to VoIP.

VoIP technology has matured incredibly in the past decade. What was once a niche application has now become the gold standard for businesses of all sizes. As long as you have an internet connection, you have the best phone service possible. So, what makes VoIP better than traditional phone service?

Advantages of Switching to VoIP Services for Small Business

Just as people have begun to abandon cable TV in favor of streaming services, so too have companies found lots of reasons to switch to VoIP in lieu of traditional phones. VoIP services for small businesses are especially advantageous. VoIP scales with your business while delivering better quality service than your local phone company at a much lower cost.

Furthermore, VoIP gives you access to some incredible features that your local phone company will never be able to provide. Analog systems will simply never be able to match the potential of a digital one.  

Scalability

When your company needs a new phone line, you need to call the local phone company and request a visit from a technician. When you need a new VoIP phone line, you simply log into your administrator’s account and add a line. In minutes your line is active. VoIP allows you to expand your phone service as your business grows, which makes it great for startups and small businesses.

You can also control who can access your lines. You can set up a line specifically for customer support and use extensions just as you would a traditional phone system. This makes it easy to scale up phone service in specific departments. Best of all, adding new lines often gets less expensive as you scale up.

Low Cost

VoIP providers offer a wide variety of price points for your needs. Barebones VoIP service that just provides a phone number and unlimited calling can be had for as little as $10 per month. More advanced features come bundled together with higher-tier plans.

VoIP also gives you access to affordable international calling, something phone companies notoriously gouge for. If you do business in multiple locations, VoIP-to-VoIP calls are completely free. If you need to call landlines or mobile phones in other countries, you can set up international VoIP numbers or pay low rates when needed. Overall, VoIP delivers a much more cost-effective solution

Reliable Service

One of the only drawbacks of VoIP is that you need an internet connection to use your VoIP number. A decade ago when internet connections were much slower, it was difficult to get consistent quality calls through VoIP. Some dedicated VoIP providers had better service than others, but none were perfect. However, that has all changed in recent years.

Not only have VoIP compression algorithms gotten better, but our internet connections are now much wider and can handle VoIP calls with ease. Furthermore, VoIP services are increasingly using cloud computing systems like Amazon’s AWS or Microsoft’s Azure, which provide a reliable backbone that never fails. If you do run into any issues, your managed IT services provider can step in and resolve them for you.

Advanced Features

Besides being cheaper, better, and more flexible, VoIP systems come packed with some truly impressive features. Consider some of the advanced features that you can get with VoIP that you won’t be able to get anywhere else.

Everything the Phone Company Does, and More

Basic phone services like call forwarding, voicemail, extensions, and caller ID are practically standard features for VoIP phones. However, VoIP makes them much easier to use. Instead of having to call the phone company or use complicated analog equipment, you can just change your settings in an app on your phone.

Best of all, you can customize these features for each of your lines. Individual users can personalize their experience.

Voicemail to Text and Email

Because VoIP turns audio data into a digital file, your VoIP provider can use voice recognition software to turn that file into text. The full transcription of your voicemail can be forwarded to you via text message or email. It’s much more efficient than having to dial into a voicemail inbox, and it can help you respond to client requests if you’re already on the line with someone else.

Voice Recognition and Analysis

Some VoIP providers are using voice recognition for much more than voicemail-to-text services. What if you could listen to all of your employees’ conversations with customers and gain insight into how they treat clients? That’s exactly what some VoIP providers are doing. Using AI, the VoIP provider’s servers listen to conversations to gauge mood and satisfaction.  

Our voices reflect our emotions, as do the words that we use. The AI could alert you to an employee who’s been overly aggressive with clients so that you can tone them down.
 

Programmable Menus

If you’ve always wanted to have a phone menu for your customers, VoIP makes it easy to set one up. You can upload your own recordings to guide users through the menu or rely on text-to-speech systems. Using a menu gives a professional impression to your customers. In addition, it’s much easier for your customers to get ahold of the right person.

Data Analytics

Businesses grow when they make data-driven decisions. However, your phone activity has always been difficult to quantify. While your phone company may issue a statement that lists your incoming and outgoing calls, feeding that data into analytics software is cumbersome at best. VoIP providers make it easy by outputting records in formats your software can understand.

Better yet, many VoIP providers give you access to analytics dashboards, so you don’t even need additional software. You can track your company’s call activity down to the second. Use this data to find your best CSRs, plan your marketing strategy based on call volume according to geography, or simply cut down on time spent on the phone.

VoIP Phones for Small Businesses 

Even though VoIP can work on a computer or mobile device, you can also buy special VoIP phones that run off of powered Ethernet lines. These phones have lots of convenient features and colorful touchscreens to give your staff even more power.

If you’re not sure what kind of VoIP service for small business you need or what features would be best for you, reach out to managed services experts. Contact Cyber Command to schedule a technology strategy session and ask us about how we can help you upgrade your phone system today.

IT departments have made cybersecurity management their top priority. Cyber attacks continue to increase in frequency, especially since cryptocurrency has made it possible for criminals to extort businesses without leaving a clear trail. Cybersecurity companies worldwide have raced to provide the best cybersecurity services to both businesses and governments. However, their services have become increasingly specialized to address different types of cybersecurity needs and threats.

What Are the Five Types of Cybersecurity?

Five Branches of Cybersecurity Management

Although we commonly think of cybersecurity as a single concept, modern cybersecurity experts have since broken it down into several dimensions. Today, more devices are connected to the internet than ever. Analog systems have faded into obscurity. New technologies likewise call for new cybersecurity strategies. As a result, no single approach can address all of the potential vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity companies have specialized their services into five branches that each focus on a specific scenario.

Some of these branches, including network security or application security, have been around for decades. However, several of these branches are relatively new, including cloud security and IoT security. Some cybersecurity services can provide protection on multiple fronts, while others specialize in a specific branch. Consider which situations apply to your company and how you can best protect your business.

1. Application Security

The field of application security, though not new, has undergone significant transformations in the past decade. Not long ago, applications were limited to personal computers, which meant that most security needs could be addressed by focusing on network security. However, since the advent of the iPhone and other mobile operating systems, our understanding of applications has broadened significantly. Application security now involves protecting data transfers between applications and devices, as well as ensuring applications cannot jeopardize other programs.

Perhaps the clearest example of application security is the prevalence of two-factor authentication (2FA). When 2FA is enabled, applications will ask for confirmation through another device, commonly a mobile phone. If your company uses a proprietary application to handle everyday tasks, consider implementing 2FA to reduce the risk of a data breach. 2FA protects against the most common type of cyber attack: phishing. Stolen credentials won’t grant immediate access to your system with 2FA enabled.

2. Network Security

Every business needs to invest in network security. The proliferation of Wi-Fi has increased companies’ exposure to cyber threats. For instance, many businesses offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. However, if your Wi-Fi network is unsecured, anyone can monitor all the traffic on the Wi-Fi network and potentially capture data such as logins and passwords. Worse yet, if your network is poorly configured, your public Wi-Fi could grant access to private data that should be on a secure network.

Even traditional Ethernet connections can come under attack. DDoS attacks flood your network with connection attempts, which can cripple your network or bring your website to a standstill. In many cases, these attacks are a distraction to divert your attention away from a more serious invasion. With 24/7 network monitoring tools, it’s possible to detect suspicious activity and defend your company’s network.

3. Cloud Security

The cloud was a foreign concept not long ago. Today, however, it’s essential for many businesses. Companies that operate in multiple locations as well as those that allow for remote work depend on cloud-based services for collaboration and seamless operations. Cloud storage gives businesses near-infinite capacity to hold data without up-front costs. Cloud computing can process tasks faster than even the most powerful desktop computers. However, with this convenience comes additional risk.

In the past, company data would be kept safe in a server room. Robust network security would ensure that only authorized administrators could access valuable data. In contrast, the cloud is accessible from anywhere. To protect their data, companies are turning towards software-defined networks and VPNs to access the cloud with greater security. Cloud-based applications can leverage application security techniques, including 2FA, to mitigate risk. Cloud storage can be monitored just as your local network is to spot suspicious activity.

4. IoT Security

IoT, or the Internet of Things, is more than a buzzword. Experts expect the IoT field to expand quickly as 5G networks become more commonplace. These networks allow for more connections, which means more devices will become connected to the internet. Smart home devices are a great example. However, many IoT devices are built with simplicity in mind. This means that cybersecurity is often overlooked. These devices can become vulnerabilities if not properly secured on your network.

If your company uses IoT devices, it’s important to invest more in network security. Since IoT devices will connect directly to your network, it’s possible to monitor their activity with cybersecurity software. Furthermore, IoT devices have repetitive, predictable functions, which means it’s easier to notice when one of them does something out of the ordinary. To strengthen your security, choose IoT devices that link to a secure hub. These devices operate on a secure network within your wider network.

5. Critical Infrastructure Security

We often take basic infrastructure systems for granted. The electrical grid, internet cables, traffic signals, security cameras, and many more public systems have gone digital. While this has made it easier for cities to control these systems, it also opens up vulnerabilities that cyber criminals could exploit. The field of critical infrastructure security has expanded considerably to meet this growing demand. This branch of cybersecurity is also notable for receiving far more government funding than others.

There is a growing concern that critical infrastructure would be targeted in a conflict with another nation. We’ve already seen instances of such attacks in modern times such as the STUXNET attack on Iran’s nuclear processing facilities. However, businesses don’t need to be as concerned with this branch of cybersecurity unless they actively work with local utility companies or produce components or software for governments.

What Are Cybersecurity Companies Focused On?

Cybersecurity companies today are in a constant arms race against cyber criminals. As criminals invent new methods to infiltrate and attack businesses, cybersecurity professionals strive to remain one step ahead. Currently, there is a heavy emphasis on providing 24/7/365 support via software that monitors computers, networks, and cloud connections. However, this software goes far beyond the traditional antivirus software installed on most computers. Older programs rely on a database of known viruses, but they cannot detect new threats easily.

Instead, modern programs are using pattern recognition with the help of AI-driven algorithms. If a program acts in a suspicious manner, the software can detect this behavior and quarantine it to prevent further harm. This method provides better protection than a database which could become useless if users or administrators fail to update their antivirus software. In addition, these modern tools can spot unusual behavior from a user’s account, whether it be due to compromised credentials or a disgruntled worker.

Cybersecurity Services (CSaaS)

Given the complexity of cybersecurity, many businesses are switching to a Cybersecurity-as-a-Service model. Instead of paying for software or hiring a dedicated expert, CSaaS allows companies to get full cybersecurity coverage across all areas for a flat monthly fee. It’s akin to an insurance payment. The CSaaS market is predicted to grow an astounding 16.8% annually. The simplicity of CSaaS and the fact that it scales with your company makes it extremely popular.

Best of all, opting for CSaaS doesn’t require advanced cybersecurity knowledge or complicated installations. Cloud-based tools can monitor your company from a distance. In addition, you get access to professionals who have experience in various cybersecurity fields. Instead of building a whole in-house team, you can quickly get up to speed by hiring a cybersecurity services provider.

Why Businesses Need Cybersecurity Support

Is professional cybersecurity management really necessary? Many small businesses seem to think that cybersecurity support is only for large enterprises. In reality, more small businesses are hit by cyber attacks than large enterprises. This is largely because criminals know that small businesses tend to overlook cybersecurity. However, the costs of a data breach can be overwhelming for SMBs. Prevention is always better than treatment.

Furthermore, many countries have adopted data privacy laws that require companies to protect consumers’ personal information. If your company hopes to do significant business in places like California, Brazil, or the European Union, they have to be compliant with these laws. Data privacy laws impose strict security requirements. Failing to comply could lead to large fines in addition to civil suits from consumers.  

Managed Cybersecurity Solutions

Overall, the best approach for businesses today is to take the guesswork out of cybersecurity. Hire an expert cybersecurity service provider that can manage your cybersecurity for you. You’ll get the proper equipment and software you need, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your company is in good hands.

At Cyber Command, we protect businesses of all sizes from all manner of threats. Contact Cyber Command today to schedule your strategy meeting and learn more about how our cybersecurity management can protect your company.

Almost every company has to include technological solutions in their operations, no matter the industry. Once you get past a few employees, it makes sense to set up a tech department that manages your website, your employees’ IT issues, and your customers’ requests. However, setting up a whole department is very expensive, which is why more and more companies employ a cloud IT service. Cloud services can provide the same benefit at a reduced cost.

Because they are external and serve many small businesses at once, managed IT departments are able to operate 24/7, so your employees and customers never have to wait for help. What’s more, the security is always updated, and your data is safe even in the event of a disaster. Because the infrastructure is already there, you won’t have to pay to set it up. Read on to find out why so many small companies are choosing managed IT services.

9 Benefits of Managed Cloud IT Service

1. You Can Save Money

When you use a managed IT company, you can access a similar type of service at a much lower cost. What’s more, your finance team won’t have any trouble budgeting for your IT services because the fee is fixed. Therefore, you know exactly how much you’ll pay for the next few months or even years, and you don’t have to worry about unexpected maintenance expenses or the increasing cost of employees and equipment.

2. Cloud Services Are Extremely Secure

Cyber attacks have been a problem for businesses for decades. If you store sensitive client information or you have proprietary technology you don’t want to share with the wider community, you have to take measures to safeguard your data. But unfortunately, hackers develop new ways around these safety barriers all the time, and technology that was completely secure a year ago might no longer be adequate today.

When you book a strategy session with an IT professional, they can analyze your current safety measures and let you know whether you’re at risk. If so, you should consider signing up to a cloud service. Here at Cyber Command, we implement a security model that is powered by AI and machine learning and provides several layers of security. Updates are automatic, so you don’t have to worry about whether your business is still protected.

3. Your Employees Can Focus on Their Strengths

4. Everyone Benefits from 24/7 Support

When businesses start using a cloud IT service, they no longer have this problem. At Cyber Command, we offer 24/7 support 365 days a year, so your customers and employees never have to wait to receive help. As a result, your company can benefit from speedier operations, and you’re likely to receive a much better customer service rating.

5. You Are Covered Wherever You Go

That way, you don’t have to switch companies or go through the hassle of setting up an additional IT department at your new location. What’s more, we will already know your business, which saves you a lot of time because you won’t have to explain your company and industry to new people. You can simply inform us about the changes to your company, and we will let you know what kind of remote and onsite support we can offer at your new location.

6. The Onboarding Process Is Simple

Depending on your individual situation, you might prefer an all-virtual service, or you might need some onsite staff to help your employees and customers. In addition to discussing your options, we will also let you know what the cost of our services are. We always aim to be transparent from the start, so you can make the decision that best fits your company.

7. You Can Recover Data after a Disaster

8. No Infrastructure Costs

What’s more, servers can break down, and repairing them represents an additional, unpredictable business cost. A managed, cloud-based IT department is a much safer bet because you won’t have to set up any of your own equipment, and you’ll pay a fixed monthly amount. When your servers have to be repaired, Cyber Command will take on the cost, and you won’t have to pay extra.

9. You Can Compete with Larger Businesses

Because there is 24/7 assistance, your customer service will be just as good as the service offered by larger businesses. What’s more, your managed IT company will monitor your network and make sure it stays up. You’ll experience much less downtime, which further improves your customers’ experience and prevents you from losing a lot of money due to interruptions to your production process.

Most small and medium-sized businesses have a very modest IT team that might only comprise 1-3 people. This can create a lot of challenges. For example, your employees might not be experts in every field related to technology. What’s more, your customers might have to wait for a reply if they have a question out-of-hours. A way around this problem is to hire managed IT services.

A managed IT department is external, so it comes at the fraction of the cost of an in-house team. Since there are various companies out there, you’ll have to select the best provider. So, how can you make sure that your chosen IT specialists are a good fit for your business? In today’s post, we will have a closer look at the factors you should consider when outsourcing your IT department.

How Do You Choose a Managed IT Service? 

In the US, there are many managed IT companies, but not all of them provide the same level of service. To find someone who suits your needs, you’ll have to first browse through the websites online and then book a strategy session with a company that fits your requirements. When speaking to the IT professionals, try to find out how their services are organized, what the monthly cost is, and what kind of cybersecurity features they offer.

Select Someone with Good Customer Service 

There are two reasons why good customer service needs to be at the top of your list of priorities when considering an IT service. Firstly, you will have to work together with the IT company on a daily basis, so you need to know that communication will be excellent. You should be able to ask your IT specialists anything, and they should get back to you in a timely manner. Secondly, your managed IT department is likely to have direct contact with your customers.

While you handle the more complex inquiries related to your product or service, the IT company will deal with general or technical queries. To enhance your reputation and keep your customers happy, you need to select an IT company with excellent customer service. Here at Cyber Command, we train all our employees in communication strategies, and we offer a 24/7/365 service.

Have a Look at the Company’s Experience 

Another factor to consider is the IT company’s level of experience. Have they worked with firms similar to yours before, and are their current customers satisfied with the level of service provided? Most IT businesses’ websites will have an “Industries” section, where you can find more information about the kinds of companies they collaborate with. Browse this carefully to see whether the IT specialists are able to provide the service you require.

Another way to see whether a company will be able to meet your needs is to check their list of employees. If there are many people with very specialized jobs, it’s likely that the company is doing well and providing a good service. Once you’ve found a suitable IT business, you should speak to the experts directly. Ask them about their level of experience and the credentials of their staff. You could even ask for the contact details of current customers.

Check That the Coverage Is Nationwide 

If you currently only work in one state, you might be tempted to go with a company that operates in your area. But this could be a problem later on. Even if you don’t have any plans to expand your business to another part of the country right now, you might change your mind as the business grows. For this reason, you should make sure that your managed IT department is able to cover you, wherever you go.

That way, you won’t have to deal with hiring a new company when you decide to set up offices or branches in a new location. Instead, you’ll simply upgrade your plan and keep working with a good IT team that already knows your business.

Schedule a Session and Speak to the Representatives 

When you’re first browsing for a managed IT department, you’ll compare the websites of potential companies. An IT business’s online presence can tell you a lot about them, including what they do, what industries they favor, how comprehensive their service is, and how much experience they have. However, you won’t get the full picture until you speak to them one-on-one.

Once you’ve found a company that seems suitable, request a technology strategy session. During this meeting, your IT experts will analyze your company’s current situation and let you know how they would help you improve your IT solutions, both for your employees and your customers. This meeting won’t cost much, and it will allow you to get to know the people you’ll be working with. That way, you can assess whether they will fit with the rest of your company.

Check That the Price Matches Your Budget 

A managed IT department is a great solution for businesses that want to improve and upgrade their tech solutions without breaking the bank. You’ll gain access to professionals who can troubleshoot problems, integrate new ideas, and work with your customers 24/7 without having to open an entire IT department and hire a lot of employees.

Because a managed IT service is mainly used by small and medium-sized businesses, the cost is kept low. During your strategy meeting, you should ask your IT specialists for a quote. That way, you can determine whether the service they offer is good value and whether it fits your current budget.

Ask About the Security of the System 

No matter how careful you are, moving your services online always comes with a certain level of risk. There are thousands of cyber criminals out there, and they are developing new ways of hacking into businesses’ computers all the time. For this reason, you should speak to IT experts about cybersecurity before you hire them.

Here at Cyber Command, we provide you with several layers of security, so the risk is minimized. We can install software that blocks malicious attacks, upgrade all your security systems on a regular basis, and generate reports that show us where we still need to put in more effort. Because we have plenty of experience working with various businesses, we know what the weak points are, and we can protect you from dangerous attacks.

Are Managed IT Services Right for You?

Countless companies benefit greatly from a managed IT service. If you have no IT team, or you only have a few employees and you’d like to expand the services you offer, this could be the perfect solution for you. A good IT department can improve your customers’ experience and lead to greater long-term success. It’s also worth remembering that managed IT services are scalable, so you can keep using the same team even if you expand your company.

Your IT Team Is Overwhelmed

Unless you have virtually unlimited financial resources, you have to take measures to keep your business costs low. One of them is hiring only those employees you really need. This usually means that small businesses have one to three IT professionals on staff. As the company grows, this might not be enough. A managed IT department can take pressure off your employees and help you improve your customer service.

You Have No IT Support  

While most of the companies we work with have at least one IT expert on staff, we occasionally get requests from businesses that have no technological solutions in place. They might have been too small in the past to hire an extra employee, or they might not have prioritized getting the business online. In this case, hiring outside help is even more important because the company doesn’t have the internal resources to set up a successful IT strategy.

Your Customers Aren’t Getting the Service They Deserve 

One of the main reasons why people contact us is because they want to improve the service they provide their customers. Because we can help your customers 24/7/365, they will no longer have to wait. Even if your IT employees are out of the office, your customers will get help immediately. This improves your reputation and gives you an edge over your competition.

You Are Looking to Expand in the Future 

Right now, your IT employees might be able to help your customers and your other workers with their questions and concerns. But what happens when your company grows? Will an in-house team still be the best solution? When you hire a managed IT service that provides a nationwide service, you can grow your company without worrying about technological solutions. You can simply adjust your plan to include new offices or branches.

For small and medium-sized businesses that can’t afford to hire a comprehensive IT team, managed IT services are a great solution. When hiring a company, you should consider the customer service, the level of experience, the extent of the coverage, the price, and the security systems. Schedule a technology strategy session at Cyber Command to speak to one of our experts. We will be happy to show you how we can improve your IT experience.

Small businesses face many bottlenecks as they try to scale up their operations. In the past, physical infrastructure was the chief limitation. For a business to expand, it needed new facilities and people to work in them. Today, however, the situation has changed dramatically. As more work occurs online, irrespective of location, cloud services have become the new office building. In particular, cloud networking has become an absolute must for companies looking to grow.

Why is cloud networking so important for small and medium businesses? What even is it, exactly? Let’s take a closer look at how this technology is changing the business landscape and how you can integrate it into your operations.

How Does Cloud Networking Help Small Businesses?

Understanding the Cloud

Technology is advancing at an incredible pace. While your parents and grandparents had similar childhoods, odds are your children will live in a radically different world. Barely a decade ago, the idea of working in “the cloud” was science fiction. Today, it’s a necessity. What does it mean to work in the cloud? The cloud is essentially a cluster of computers and the connections between them. The cloud is accessible using the internet exclusively.

Companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, just to name a few, have dedicated immense resources to building cloud infrastructure. A data center, for instance, holds hundreds of servers and thousands of terabytes of storage. All of these machines are linked and accessible using any internet connection. While we live down here on the ground using private networks and personal computers, your business data and computing can live in the cloud.

Why the Cloud Works

At a glance, it may seem counterproductive to use the cloud. After all, it does require internet access in order to use. However, these days internet access is widespread. 5G networks are being deployed worldwide, and broadband connections at home only continue to get faster. Business internet connections are already lightning fast. Not having internet access today is like not having electricity or running water. It’s a basic need, so it shouldn’t be seen as an obstacle.

Once you get past that initial resistance, it becomes clear why the cloud is the superior choice. It’s accessible from everywhere, unlike your office computers that are trapped behind four walls on a specific plot of land. Best of all, it’s not limited by your investments in hardware. When you hire a cloud services provider, you get all of their infrastructure. Every computer in a data center can work for you, and you only pay for what you actually use.

What Does Cloud Networking Encompass?

Within the cloud are specific technologies that make work possible in the cloud. When we talk about cloud networking, we’re referring to how devices connect to one another using the cloud. There are a few different tools that you may want to consider for your business. Opting for these cloud-based tools will save you money in the short and long term while also giving your business the flexibility it needs to scale.

The main services that companies need are cloud storage and cloud computing. These are the two primary services that data centers provide, and they’re the backbone of cloud networking. Consider the advantages of using these modern solutions and how they can help your company to grow.

Cloud Storage

Most small companies with physical spaces use network storage to allow everyone in the office to work on the same files without generating redundancy. To do this, you need a server with storage, and it has to be connected to every computer in the office. Cloud storage takes that to the next level. Instead of paying for an expensive file server in your building, you can pay for cloud storage at affordable rates. Most cloud storage providers charge per gigabyte.

You’ll never have to upgrade a server again by switching to cloud storage. This is perfect for companies looking to scale up. Besides, you’ll have access to your files regardless of where you are. Any authorized user can access the cloud as long as they have an internet connection. Companies that had already switched to cloud storage found themselves at a huge advantage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Work from home was easy for those organizations, while others struggled to adapt.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing may not be necessary for every small business, but we would recommend you start planning to use it sooner rather than later. Compute power is vital once your organization reaches a certain size. For example, if you want to perform data analysis, you’ll need powerful computers to process your data and output valuable insights. Data analytics is vital for growth, especially for SMBs that are close to reaching 100 employees. But that compute power requires hardware.

Data analytics is just one example of a situation where computing power is necessary. If your company produces many videos, rendering them requires many GPUs. If you do lots of CAD or graphic design work, you might also benefit from extra computing power. Instead of spending tens of thousands on servers, send your jobs to the cloud and let them do the computing for you. You’ll pay for the time you occupy CPUs in the cloud, nothing more.

Run Applications in the Cloud

Another reason to consider cloud computing is that you can run custom programs in the cloud and never worry about them slowing down. Perhaps you run a company that needs to track lots of information about clients. You set up a database, and your developers write a GUI for the program so your employees can track clients and make modifications to the database. So far, it sounds great. You might already have proprietary software in your organization.

But what happens when your company outgrows its servers? Now your proprietary application slows down and everyone in your company finds it frustrating to use. Even simple programs can become unwieldy when there isn’t enough computing power to keep them running smoothly. As your organization scales, you need computing to scale. Instead of spending on more servers, switch to the cloud. If your program uses more power, the cloud will simply bill you a little more.

Connect Multiple Locations

When your storage and processing happen in the cloud, your business becomes more connected. One of the main reasons companies look to cloud services is that they can operate anywhere, making expansion easier. A virtual company in France can open a virtual office in New Zealand tomorrow and operate without a single hiccup since all of its files and processes are in the cloud.

If you have a large volume of data that needs to be passed from one office to another, there are cloud-based networking solutions that provide precisely that function. Instead of shuffling data randomly through data centers, you can work with cloud services that provide direct connections between ISPs in different regions to allow for high-speed data transfer between locations. Using cloud-based networking is like working next door to your other locations, even if they’re thousands of miles apart.

Benefits for Small Businesses

All of this technology sounds great, but does it really have benefits for small business customers? The answer is a resounding yes. Using the cloud eliminates many of the technological hurdles that hinder companies’ growth. Furthermore, it can be a very cost-effective solution.

Scale Faster

The faster your company can scale, the more it can stay ahead of the competition. Every SMB hopes to scale up faster, and cloud technology makes that possible. As we’ve seen, cloud storage and computing scale as your company does. With the cloud, you’ll never run into a storage limit; you’ll simply pay for more storage. Likewise, when your company’s software is under greater stress because you have more users, the cloud will simply allocate more processing power to you.

Essentially, cloud services work like electricity or water: The more you use, the more you pay. But unlike your utility companies, there’s really no limit to how much you can scale with the cloud. Your company can grow infinitely as you leverage cloud services, meaning you’ve found a solution that will last a lifetime.

Spend Less

In most cases, using the latest technology is an expensive endeavor. However, cloud services actually save your company money every month. You sidestep high up-front costs since you won’t have to invest in servers. But you also avoid significant long-term costs because you dodge downtime (the cloud never fails), and you don’t have to pay people to perform maintenance. The cloud essentially runs itself, and it does so with incredible reliability.

Simpler Solutions, Less Trouble

Overall, the cloud delivers remarkably flexible solutions that can scale to any company’s size. SMBs should look to switch to cloud-based workflows as soon as possible. However, if you’re not sure how to get started or worried about the complexities of switching systems, get some professional help.

Managed IT services will take care of everything for you. At Cyber Command, we help SMBs like yours find the perfect solution for growth and prosperity. We can manage your cloud services and recommend new implementations. Contact Cyber Command today to learn more.

Most modern businesses rely on the expertise of IT specialists that manage the various technological aspects of the business, from the basic network used for business communications to software that customers may use to access products. Regardless of the breadth of an IT department, there may come a time when a co-managed IT solution may be necessary for a business to flourish.

Essentially, co-managed IT is a service that allows a business to integrate a managed service provider for additional IT support into an internal IT department. The ability to collaborate with different IT management allows for a more customized and flexible approach to IT projects and issues. For the most part, any business large or small can use a co-managed service. That said, organizations that are interested in growth may benefit the most.

What Are the Benefits of Co-Managed IT?

There are several significant benefits of using co-managed services to fortify IT structure. For example, the ability to collaborate allows for easier troubleshooting of any problems that may come up, helps an internal IT department close gaps in security, and can allow management to focus more on building the business.

As an outsourcing strategy, it’s important to use co-managed services strategically for the benefit of the business, which is why it’s necessary to be aware of all the ways this type of service can help support an organization. Some of the most significant benefits include:

1. Client-Centric

First and foremost, co-managed IT services are tailored to the client, which means that the needs of the business are prioritized. The software, security protocols, and other IT techniques that will be used to aid in an organization’s IT management will all be customized to the current IT needs and overall goals of an organization.

By taking a client-centric approach, co-manage services are able to maintain flexibility and responsiveness that will help businesses grow. Furthermore, the ability to collaborate with a co-managed team can create a new IT structure that will push a business forward into the future.

2. Transparent Network

Another benefit of a co-managed service is increased network transparency. Although internal IT managers will generally know what is going on within the network at all times, limited staff resources and technology that isn’t up-to-date may not allow for the best transparency in the network. With increased network transparency, it’s much easier to monitor all devices that interact with the network and counter potential security risks.

3. Cost Management

Cost management is another significant factor that makes co-managed IT services especially attractive. The ability to mix and match types of IT services will enable management to create a plan that is within the budget of the business, but also provides all the services that the business needs.

For that matter, a co-managed service is much more affordable than a fully managed service. This is because a co-managed service will utilize the staff and infrastructure a business is already using, while a fully managed service will completely take over all the organization’s IT needs and will cost more in the long run.

4. Total Coverage for IT Services

The scale and scope of IT services relate to many devices, software, and other technology solutions that may be involved in the day-to-day management of a business. Because IT services can manage issues from network security to internet access to data breaches, it’s important to use a co-managed service that provides total coverage for any blank spots the current IT team may have.

Total coverage for IT services will begin with a network assessment to understand security needs, as well as an assessment of other potential IT issues the organization has. The co-managed service will then identify areas in the current IT infrastructure that need additional support and will create a plan that will allow for total coverage.

5. Maintain Current Employees

Particularly for small businesses, it can be very important to maintain good employee-employer relationships, so it’s especially beneficial that a co-managed service will allow businesses to maintain current IT employees. It’s always a good idea to keep the current in-house IT staff because they already have a working knowledge of the network and IT infrastructure.

Additionally, the co-managed service is usually able to provide support off-site or remotely, which means the business will likely still need to have in-house support for day-to-day IT needs. Keeping the current IT staff allows businesses to have the best of both worlds.

6. Escalation Point for IT

Co-managed services also provide an escalation point for any IT needs the business may have. For example, if the organization runs into an issue like a network security problem or the inability to access email, if the in-house IT staff can’t resolve this issue, then they have a support team ready to help them remotely through the co-manage service.

The ability for an internal IT team to reach out for support when necessary means that the organization benefits from a safety net that will ensure the productivity of the business and reduce downtime the network may experience. The escalation point is also helpful because the co-managed service may have staff that have expertise in IT knowledge that the in-house staff doesn’t have, which ensures that an organization’s IT support is well-rounded.

7. Stronger Security

Network security benefits when more eyes can detect potential issues. Hand in hand with network transparency, it’s very important to ensure an organization’s network has the strongest security possible.

In the age of cybercrime, small and large organizations have to fend off security risks daily to prevent issues such as data breaches. By having an integrated co-managed service, a business can fortify the current network security it has and adopt protocols that will prevent security issues in the future.

8. Faster Response

Another important benefit of a co managed IT service is the ability to have a faster response time, particularly during times when in-house IT are unable to resolve IT issues. It’s very important to have a fast response time for IT issues, because the faster response is, the faster a business can resume normal activity or prevent security breaches.

9. Data Compliance Support

These days, there is an ongoing evolution in data compliance laws and regulations that businesses need to continually maintain to avoid penalties and other legal consequences. Because data compliance needs to be maintained constantly, it can be a challenge for in-house IT staff to monitor all data compliance regulations at all times.

However, with a co-managed service, an organization will benefit from the ability to immediately respond to any data compliance breaches or new aspects of data compliance regulations. By maintaining data compliance regulations, a business will be fully supported in terms of legal requirements.

10. Proactive Monitoring

In cybersecurity, it’s ideal if an organization’s attitude towards security risks is proactive rather than responsive. This means that IT infrastructure and protocol is designed to prevent cyber risks rather than respond to cyber risks after they have happened. Part of having proactive monitoring is the ability to create an IT plan for the security of the network that covers all potential risk factors and entry points.

With proactive monitoring, not only will an organization’s response to any potential data breaches be much faster, but the organization may be able to prevent those breaches from happening in the first place. A co-managed service working with in-house IT staff can make proactive monitoring much easier.

11. 24-Hour Response Time

Finally, using a co-managed service for IT needs also enables an organization to have a 24-hour response time. Businesses that are interested in growing or that continually use IT resources even during off-hours will benefit from a 24-hour response time that can be found with a co-managed service.

This is one of the greatest benefits of using a co-managed IT service. By partnering with a service that provides 24-hour monitoring of the network and can respond to any IT needs immediately, a business benefits by having more protection and overall faster response that will help the business move forward.

How Can You Implement Co-Managed IT?

Implementing co-managed IT services is much easier than business owners and organizations may first assume. The easiest way to implement a co-managed service is to first schedule a technology strategy session and a network security assessment that will analyze IT infrastructure to identify any weak points an organization may have.

From there, the co-managed service will work with in-house IT staff to create new strategies and protocols that can be integrated into the current structure. The co-managed service will then be on-boarded into the organization and the business will benefit from a trusted one-stop-shop for any IT solutions and services it may need.

Regardless of the size of a business, a co-managed service for IT needs can be beneficial, particularly for growing businesses and organizations. A co-managed service is important to maintain a fast response time, network security, proactive monitoring, data compliance support, and an escalation point for current IT staff. To learn more about integrating co-managed IT services into business operations, contact Cyber Command today. 

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